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When’s the Best Time to Visit Calgary?
Calgary’s unique charm changes with the seasons, offering exciting experiences year-round. The best time to visit depends on the kind of adventure you’re looking for.
Summer in Calgary: June to August
If you love the outdoors like we do, summer is the perfect time for hiking, biking, and fishing. We visited in early August, and the weather was fantastic, with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 79°F (20°C to 26°C). A few rainy days didn’t stop us from having fun and exploring! If you’re visiting in mid-July, don’t miss the Calgary Stampede. This 10-day extravaganza features rodeo competitions, concerts, stage shows, and agricultural displays—celebrating Alberta’s rich Western heritage.
Autumn Vibes: September to November
Autumn in Calgary is magical and has become our favorite season. The city transforms into a sea of golden leaves, creating the perfect backdrop for scenic walks and park visits. Early fall temperatures hover around 59°F (15°C). Plus, with fewer tourists, it’s a peaceful time to explore Calgary’s beauty at your own pace.
Calgary in Winter: December to February
Winter turns Calgary into a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying the breathtaking snow-capped mountains. We loved wrapping up each day with a warm cup of hot chocolate. The nearby Rockies are famous for their world-class snow sports, making Calgary a top winter destination.
What to Keep in Mind
Summer and winter are peak seasons, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. For a quieter, more affordable experience, visit in spring or fall. You’ll still enjoy Calgary’s charm—just without the peak-season hustle.
Top Picks for Your Perfect Stay in Calgary
When visiting Calgary, staying close to the main attractions made our trip easy and enjoyable. Here are our top hotel picks:
Hyatt Regency Calgary, located near Calgary Tower and Stephen Avenue Walk, this hotel offers spacious rooms and standout amenities like a heated pool and spa. Members of their loyalty program can enjoy a free night—something we’ve taken advantage of often.
Hilton Garden Inn Calgary Downtown is ideally located near East Village, the Bow River, and Olympic Plaza. Comfortable rooms, a pool, and a delicious breakfast make it a solid choice. The riverfront is great for walking and biking. Hilton Honors members can enjoy a free night, which we loved.
Alt Hotel Calgary East Village is a modern hotel located in a vibrant neighborhood near St. Patrick’s Island Park and Calgary Tower. Its sleek design and cozy vibe made it the perfect spot for us to unwind after a day of exploring.
Explore Calgary’s Skyscrapers and Stunning Architecture
After renting a car in Calgary, we were excited to explore the city. We parked right in the heart of the city and began walking, soaking in the sights. Along the way, we encountered impressive skyscrapers, including The Bow, standing tall at 236 meters (774 feet). The city’s tallest building, Brookfield Place East, reaches an impressive 247 meters (810 feet). Walking through Calgary’s streets, we admired the incredible architecture, with modern glass towers and sleek designs that gave the city a vibrant, cosmopolitan feel.
Visit the Powerful Symbol of Unity in Calgary
When exploring Calgary, don’t miss The Family of Man sculpture. We came across it and were truly moved by its powerful arrangement of figures, symbolizing unity and human connection. The emotional depth captured by each statue really struck us, showcasing the range of human emotions and feelings that artist Augusto Giacometti sought to convey. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for something unique to see, this sculpture is definitely worth a visit!
The Calgary Tower
One of Calgary’s most famous landmarks and top tourist attractions is the Calgary Tower—you just can’t miss it! Soaring 191 meters above the city, it offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views. On clear days, you’ll even catch a glimpse of the majestic Rocky Mountains. Originally known as the Husky Tower, it was renamed in the 1970s and has since remained a symbol of Calgary’s skyline.
What makes it even more special? At night, its LED lights transform the tower into a glowing spectacle, making it perfect for stunning photos. Whether you’re in Calgary for a day or longer, the Calgary Tower is a must-visit for anyone wanting a fresh perspective on the city. Don’t miss out!
Calgary Tower: Hours, Fees, and Tips for Visiting
The Calgary Tower is open year-round, with only one exception—Christmas Day. It operates on seasonal hours:
June to August: 9 AM to 10 PM
September to May: 9 AM to 9 PM
Admission Fees:
Adults: USD 22
Children: USD 10
Tickets can be purchased either online or in person, but keep in mind that purchasing online typically offers a small discount.
Tip: Buying your tickets in advance online is not only cheaper but also helps you skip the lines. You can easily buy your tickets here.
Heritage Park
Heritage Park in Calgary was a great way to spend a few hours during our 24-hour visit to Calgary. With a variety of activities, it offers something for everyone, making it enjoyable for visitors of all ages. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll have a blast too! The park provides a unique chance to step back in time and fully immerse yourself in Western Canadian history.
Heritage Park Opening Hours & Entrance Fees
Heritage Park in Calgary is open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with extended hours during peak seasons and special events. The entrance fees are as follows:
Adults: USD 22
Children: USD 11
It’s always a good idea to visit the official Heritage Park website for the latest pricing and seasonal changes to their hours before your visit.
The historical village at Heritage Park in Calgary feels like a world of its own, filled with charming shops, fascinating museums, and cozy restaurants. Hop on the Calgary Train for a relaxing ride around the village, taking in the sights and sounds. As you walk through the streets, it’s like stepping into a living museum, where historic buildings, staff in period costumes, and interactive exhibits bring the past to life. There are also countless perfect photo opportunities, from vintage storefronts to scenic views, making it an ideal spot to capture beautiful shots.
We also stopped by the Gasoline Alley Museum, which has a great collection of vintage cars and is worth a visit if you’re curious about transportation history. If you’re a nature lover, the park’s lake offers beautiful hiking trails with breathtaking views. The view of the lake from above is stunning—you can catch more of this in our YouTube vlog!
A Must-Try Dessert: Calgary Cream Brûlée at Heritage Park
While you’re exploring Heritage Park in Calgary, make sure to try the Calgary Cream Brûlée—it’s one of the best we’ve had all over the world! This unique dessert is made with coconut milk and dried coconut, which gives it a delightful tropical twist. The homemade jelly adds an extra layer of flavor, and when mixed with the creamy brûlée, it creates a deliciously smooth, rich combination. It’s definitely worth trying, and we highly recommend it if you’re visiting the park!
By the way, the incredible crème brûlée we had was created by Chef Nicole Buckton, and it was definitely a treat worth mentioning!
Stephen Avenue
Our one day in Calgary wouldn’t have been complete without a visit to Stephen Avenue, one of the city’s busiest and most vibrant streets. As soon as we stepped onto the avenue, we were greeted by an array of musicians and street performers, adding to the lively atmosphere. The street is lined with beautiful buildings showcasing impressive architecture, and there’s no shortage of cozy cafés, restaurants, and adorable bakery shops. Whether you’re looking for a spot to grab lunch or dinner, Stephen Avenue offers the perfect setting to relax and enjoy the city’s vibrant vibe.
Stephen Avenue: A Shopper’s Paradise in Calgary
Stephen Avenue is truly a shopper’s paradise, offering a variety of charming and unique stores to explore. We stopped by a quirky shirt shop that had a diverse collection of designs. From funny sayings to motivational quotes and travel-inspired themes, the shop offered something for everyone. Whether you’re hunting for a fun souvenir or just a shirt to add some flair to your wardrobe, this spot is a must-visit on Stephen Avenue. With its clever and creative designs, you’re sure to find a shirt that reflects your personality and sense of humor.
Lunch at Metropolitan Restaurant in Calgary: A Delicious Experience
While walking down Calgary’s busiest street, Stephen Avenue, we decided to stop for lunch at the Metropolitan Restaurant. The outdoor seating offered a great spot to enjoy our meal while taking in the lively surroundings. As we dined, a talented musician performed in front of us, which added to the pleasant atmosphere. Surrounded by beautiful architecture, the combination of delicious food and great music made for a simple but enjoyable lunch. If you’re ever on Stephen Avenue, this is a great place to relax and soak in the vibrant energy of Calgary!
For lunch, we both opted for refreshing salads. The salad options at the Metropolitan Restaurant were not only delicious but also quite creative, offering a variety of fresh ingredients. Whether it’s the Greek Salad, featuring crisp cucumber, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives, or the Thai Mango Salad with tangy dressing and mixed herbs, these salads were the perfect balance of flavors. It was a delightful part of our meal, adding a refreshing touch to the whole experience.
Central Memorial Park
Central Memorial Park, Calgary’s oldest park, underwent a significant revitalization between 2008 and 2009, with an investment of $11.5 million. This beautifully restored green space is home to the historic Memorial Park Library, Calgary’s oldest library.
The park is dotted with monuments honoring those who served in various wars, adding a sense of reverence to its peaceful atmosphere. With fountains and scenic walkways, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. One highlight was the giant chess set on the grass—guess who took home the victory? 😉
The Centre Street Bridge
The Centre Street Bridge in Calgary is not only a famous landmark but also a great spot for outdoor activities like walking and biking. The bridge spans the Bow River and connects downtown Calgary with the northern neighborhoods, offering beautiful views of both the city and the river.
You can easily walk or bike across the bridge and enjoy the scenic surroundings. The peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect for photography, especially around sunrise or sunset when the city skyline and river create stunning backdrops. The bridge is also conveniently located near parks and pathways, such as Prince Island Park, which makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the area further.
In addition to the bridge itself, which boasts impressive stone and steel architecture, there are numerous coffee shops and cozy eateries nearby. You can stop for a cup of hot chocolate or a coffee and enjoy the vibrant energy of the area while taking in the views. The combination of outdoor beauty, history, and accessible spots for food and drinks makes it a perfect place for both relaxation and exploration. It’s especially popular for photography, particularly in the evening when the city lights reflect off the river.
